01
Best river canyon hike
Roosevelt and Lane Lakes via Leavitt Meadows
Leavitt Meadows On Highway 108 • River Canyon And Subalpine Lakes Hike • Scenic Half-Day Outing
A mellow, scenic walk up the West Walker River to a pair of classic Sierra lakes framed by granite walls.
From the Leavitt Meadows trailhead, the path follows the West Walker through wide meadows, scattered forest, and low granite benches before climbing gently toward Roosevelt and Lane Lakes. It is a great choice if you want big-mountain scenery without an all-day grind, and the grade stays manageable for reasonably fit families. Expect patches of mud early in the season and bring mosquito repellent when the meadows are lush.
02
Best high-alpine views
Pacific Crest Trail from Sonora Pass
Sonora Pass Summit On Highway 108 • High-Alpine Ridge And Pct Segment • Best For Big Open Views
A steep but spectacular stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail that quickly launches you onto a volcanic ridge above treeline.
Starting right at Sonora Pass, the PCT climbs sharply through pumice and broken rock, gaining a sweeping ridge with views that run from the high Sierra crest to the distant desert. You can make this an out-and-back of whatever length you like, turning around at the first major overlook or pushing farther toward Leavitt Peak. The trail is exposed and often windy, so start early on hot days and be ready for lingering snow early in the summer.
03
Best full-day outing
Barney Lake via Robinson Creek
Twin Lakes Near Bridgeport • Classic Sierra Wilderness Day Hike • Best For Strong Hikers
A rewarding climb from Twin Lakes up a glacial valley to a large, deep-blue lake tucked in the Hoover Wilderness.
The Barney Lake trail leaves from the Twin Lakes area and follows Robinson Creek through forest and open valley before switchbacking steadily toward the basin. The payoff is a broad, high-country lake backed by cliffs and talus, with plenty of shoreline to spread out for lunch or a quick, bracing dip. It is a longer, more strenuous day than the hikes closer to Walker, but the classic Sierra scenery makes it a staple for locals who want a real workout.
04
Best easy-access alpine lakes
Virginia Lakes Loop
Virginia Lakes Basin Off Highway 395 • Alpine Lakes Loop With Easy Access • Best For Mixed-Ability Groups
A high-elevation network of short trails linking jewel-like lakes, with big mountain views right from the parking lot.
At Virginia Lakes, the trailheads sit almost at treeline, so you get that high-country feel as soon as you step out of the car. Short loops connect the main lakes, and you can extend the day by heading toward higher tarns and passes if the group is feeling strong. It is an ideal spot when you want dramatic scenery, straightforward navigation, and options for both casual strollers and keener hikers in the same party.
05
Best waterfall and foliage hike
Lundy Canyon Trail
Lundy Canyon North Of Lee Vining • Waterfall-Filled Glacial Canyon Hike • Best For Peak Wildflower Season
A lush canyon walk with a string of waterfalls, beaver ponds, and fall-color aspen groves tucked below sheer cliffs.
The trail starts at the end of the Lundy Lake road and quickly narrows into a classic U-shaped canyon, with rushing water and wet meadows lining the route. In early summer the wildflowers and waterfalls steal the show, while autumn brings some of the most reliable aspen color in the region. The grade is moderate with a few rocky stretches, making it a satisfying but approachable hike for visitors willing to drive a bit farther from Walker.